Bison Kaalamaadan

Selvaraj transforms his own life experiences and real-life incidents into fictional narratives, making his films feel raw, authentic, and emotionally intense.

Pariyerum Perumal, Karnan, and Maamannan-unflinchingly address the reality of caste discrimination, humiliation, and violence in Tamil Nadu. The stories foreground the lives, struggles, and aspirations of the oppressed communities (Dalit narratives).

Barring screenplay choices and parts of the film that felt repetitive, this is one of the best Tamil films of the year. Pariyerum and Karnan may still be ways ahead, but Bison is surely better Vaazhai and so much better than Mamannan.

Great 'debut' for Dhruv, surrounded by a stellar supporting cast; Pasupathi might end up winning an award or two for his work. Subtle commentary on so much...*slow claps* This film is definitely not the types that you'll go to theater for to 'enjoy' and have a good time with your friends but if you want a solid, dark, though-provoking film, this is a must watch this Diwali.

The story focusses on the hardships faced by a lower caste boy in his life, for no fault of his. This movie will be for Dhruv, same as Nanda movie was for Surya. Santosh Narayanan's music and songs are apt. I would like to see more such movies in Indian film industry, next generation kids needs to know about the life of under privileged men, like the Kittan in this movie.

Instead of dwelling in caste victimhood, the film celebrates the power of persistence, self-belief, and progressive thinking as weapons against centuries of caste oppression.

Observed, it's not a grand cinematic outburst, but a small, real moment of personal emancipation. Dhruv's body language throughout-slouched shoulders slowly straightening, hesitant eyes finding steadiness-captures this inner evolution beautifully.

My learnings are about social consciousness without self-righteousness. Progression cannot rely on sympathy-it must be built through opportunity, courage, and relentless hard work.

A stirring blend of grit and grace - Bison: Kaalamaadan is a sports saga that doesn't just celebrate kabaddi, but also digs into the scars beneath. Dhruv Vikram delivers a compelling performance as Manathi Ganesan, giving us both the raw energy of an athlete and the emotional weight of a man wrestling with more than just opponents. Director Mari Selvaraj's vision is grand and unafraid, weaving social commentary into powerful sequences (though at 168 minutes, the film occasionally tests the limits of patience).

The ensemble cast, cinematography that sweats with every tackle, and a background score that throbs with purpose all lift the film. Some pacing issues in the mid-section and moments of overreach in messaging slightly dull the impact-but overall, this is a memorable ride that stands out in Tamil cinema's sports genre.